In a strategic move to broaden the reach and excitement of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expanded the tournament to four venues. For the first time since the league’s inception, games will be held in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Vadodara.
Initially, only Lucknow and Vadodara were shortlisted as hosts, but during a recent Governing Council meeting, the Board decided to include Mumbai and Bengaluru, recognizing their passionate fanbase. The final schedule, detailing the number of matches at each venue, is yet to be released. The inclusion of Baroda’s Kotambi Stadium and Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium marks a milestone for Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, granting them home-ground advantage for the first time.
Mumbai’s Continued Support for Women’s Cricket
Mumbai has consistently demonstrated fervent support for women’s cricket, attracting capacity crowds at iconic venues like Brabourne Stadium, Wankhede Stadium, and DY Patil Stadium. Following the city’s successful hosting of the entire 2023 season, BCCI has once again chosen Mumbai as a key venue for this year’s tournament. This move aims to harness the city’s vibrant cricket atmosphere to kick-start the WPL season.
Baroda’s Rise in the Cricket Scene
Baroda’s Kotambi Stadium recently marked its entry into international cricket by hosting a three-match Women’s ODI series against the West Indies. With its growing prominence in domestic cricket, including hosting Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, Baroda’s selection as a WPL venue underscores its rising importance in India’s cricket landscape.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla confirms 4 venues for WPL 2025. #CricketTwitter #WPL2025 via: Sportstar pic.twitter.com/tLhKHLbrl5
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) January 12, 2025
The Legacy of WPL
The inaugural WPL season in 2023 was a groundbreaking event, held entirely in Mumbai at the DY Patil and Brabourne stadiums. Mumbai Indians, under Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership, triumphed over Meg Lanning’s Delhi Capitals to clinch the championship title. Lanning emerged as the season’s highest run-scorer with 345 runs, while Hayley Matthews claimed the Purple Cap for her 16 wickets.
The second season expanded its reach with games in Bengaluru and Delhi, culminating in a memorable final at Arun Jaitley Stadium. Royal Challengers Bangalore, led by Smriti Mandhana, secured their maiden title by defeating Delhi Capitals. Ellyse Perry topped the batting charts with 347 runs, while Shreyanka Patil claimed the Purple Cap with 13 wickets.
Exciting Times Ahead
With a 23-match season set to begin on February 7 and conclude on March 2, the 2025 edition promises thrilling cricket action. The expansion to four venues not only reflects the growing popularity of women’s cricket but also ensures fans across India can experience the tournament’s excitement firsthand. The stage is set for another riveting chapter in WPL history.
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